I have been reading through the book of Ezekiel and I have been awestruck by the glory and majesty of the Lord. I was reminded of how great, awesome, and mighty our God really is.
When the prophet was given the vision of the Lord God sitting on his throne above the Cherubim’s (Angels) (Ezekiel 1:4-28), it completely changed his life. He found a new sense of boldness and authority to declare God’s truth in the face of much opposition and indifference, as he knew God was greater than anything he could come against.
During Ezekiel’s ministry, some of Israel were in exile and Judah was in grievous sin, as their priests and elders were involved in idol worship. There were false prophets in operation who spoke of peace and prosperity when in fact the Lord had declared judgement.
In Ezekiel 8:6, this awesome God lamented and said, “… “Son of man, do you see what they are doing, the great abominations that the house of Israel are committing here, to drive me far from my sanctuary?...” Ezekiel 8:6
This was an expression of how deep and long-suffering God loved his people, that although they persisted in sinning (idolatrous worship), his presence had tolerated it for a while. On the other hand, it goes to show that sin in our lives has a way of driving a sense of God’s presence away from us. That is not to say that God’s Spirit ceases to be with us, but rather that we may experience a receding measure of his glory in our lives. Considering this truth, Paul encouraged the church to walk by the Spirit, so that they will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).
God wants to be the centre of your life, not because he wants the attention, but because his presence brings wholeness, and he is worthy of it. Anything less than that is a step towards idolatry, where we make other things the centre of our lives or give greater significance to it.
Make it your desire to live in His presence always, as you “…lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and run with endurance the race that is set before [you]” Hebrews 12:1
I would encourage you to read the Book of Ezekiel and be captivated by the awesomeness of God again. He is greater and more powerful than anything you are currently facing. Live in his presence and put your faith in Him.
Be encouraged!
Blessings,
Chris Eke
